Cycling is not only a pleasure, but also a rewarding pastime. Not only does this sport develop endurance and have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, it also involves a variety of muscle groups.
What muscles develop while cycling
In terms of influence on the figure, a bicycle is not for nothing equated with running. While riding it, different muscle groups of the lower body develop and strengthen. So, when pedaling, a lot of stress falls on the calf muscles and hamstrings.
The largest leg muscles located on the thigh, the quadriceps and biceps, are also involved. The former are located in the upper part of the thigh and develop mainly when the pedals are lowered - you can feel their work especially well when going uphill. And the second ones are located in the lower part of the thigh and the load on them falls during the lifting of the pedals.
In addition, while cycling, the gluteal muscles are perfectly strengthened - they work simultaneously with the quadriceps. That is why this kind of sport is especially suitable for the fair sex.
Much less load falls on the abdominal muscles, but you still can't do without them in this matter. They are used mainly when the body is tilted forward or holding it in a straight position. In both cases, they work in tandem with the back muscles.
The muscles of the arms are least involved while riding this vehicle. Although when mountain biking on rough terrain, they develop no worse than the muscles of the lower body. However, professional cyclists always have more developed legs than torso.
The bike also puts stress on the iliac muscles, which help extend the hips and bend the knees. They are located on the sides of the groin. It is very important not to damage them while riding, as they are quite vulnerable. That is why it is necessary to reduce the load or stop riding altogether if severe pain begins in this area.
How to properly sit on a bike while riding
For cycling to be beneficial, you need to do it right. You need to ride this vehicle with your arms relaxed and slightly bent at the elbows. The hands should be free to wrap around the handlebars from above, and the wrists should not sag. Periodically, it is useful to slightly change the position of the hands so that they do not numb.
The back should be slightly tilted forward, as in a vertical or horizontal position, it quickly begins to grow numb and sore. If you can't hold your back correctly, then the bike frame may be too long or too short for you. The neck should be an extension of the back, not tilted forward or thrown back. Your feet should reach the pedals completely when they are at their lowest point.
